Lionel Messi and Inter Miami players were celebrated by President Trump at the White House for their 2025 MLS Cup and Club World Cup victories

Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami CF teammates were celebrated by Donald Trump, US President, at the White House on Thursday for winning the 2025 Major League Soccer Cup.

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Messi, joined by coach Javier Mascherano and team co-owner Jorge Mas, received praise from Trump in the East Room, who referenced Brazilian legend Pele and noted Messi’s exceptional achievements in the United States.

“I shouldn’t say this because I’m old, but I watched Pele play. I don’t know, you may be better than Pele. Pele was pretty good,” Trump said.

Players presented Trump with a No. 47 jersey from their signature pink kit, recognising his position as the nation’s 47th president.

Trump acknowledged Miami striker Luis Suarez, rising star Tadeo Allende, and midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, praising their contributions to the team’s success.

Trump highlighted Inter Miami’s historic victories in 2025, including the 3-1 MLS Cup final win over Vancouver Whitecaps and a 2-1 triumph over Portuguese side Porto in the Club World Cup — marking the first time a North American team defeated a European club in official competition.

Accepting the honours, Mas reflected on Inter Miami’s rise since their 2020 inaugural season. “If you work hard and you sacrifice and you dream, it can be possible,” he said.

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Mas added that the team’s success was not only due to Messi but also the players who “changed the culture of football in the United States of America forever.”